Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojna (PM-KISAN) is a scheme initiated by the Government of India to support financially vulnerable farmers of the country. The scheme was launched on 24th February 2019, during the Budget session of Parliament by the then Finance Minister, Piyush Goyal. It is one of the most significant farmer-centric schemes of the Indian Government, aimed at benefiting millions of farmers across the nation.
Under the PM-KISAN scheme, eligible farmers of India who have cultivable land up to two hectares will receive financial assitance of Rs.6,000 per annum, transferred directly to their bank accounts in three equal installments of Rs.2,000 each. The scheme is expected to benefit a total of approximately 12 crore farmers nationwide. Moreover, the scheme has been made 100% centrally funded, and no contribution would be required from the state governments.
The main objectives of the PM-KISAN scheme include providing income support to the farmers’ families, enabling them to meet their financial needs related to agriculture, health, education, etc. The scheme will also encourage farmers to adopt better farming practices, optimal utilization of inputs, and their technological hand-holding. Furthermore, the scheme will help reduce dependence on non-institutional or informal credit sources, which tend to charge higher interest, and thereby profiting from the farmers’ misery.
To avail the benefits of the PM-KISAN scheme, farmers need to apply through their respective States/UT’s Common Service Centers (CSCs), or at the local revenue office or can submit the application form online on the official website of PM-KISAN scheme using their Aadhaar cards. For the beneficiaries whose land records haven’t been digitized, CSCs and self-declared landowners can also upload their land details to avail the benefits under this scheme.
In conclusion, the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojna is an essential initiative by the Government of India for the welfare of small and marginal farmers of the country. The scheme is expected to benefit a large number of farmers in the country by extending direct financial assistance and addressing the issue of farmers’ distress. By promoting optimal utilization of inputs and reducing dependence on non-institutional sources of credit, the PM-KISAN scheme will help fulfill the government’s vision of doubling farmers’ income by 2022.